Over the span of two decades, author, columnist, consultant and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Her experiences inspired her to pen "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories," a portable support group book for caregivers.

Answers

Question

My mom gets Medicare only. Is there anything else out there to help care for her during the day?


Hi Tonis, You may want to check your state website. Type "aging" in the search box. Look for your state's version of the... see more

Question

Where can I find respite care to come into my home and care for mom?


First, of course, are in-home care agencies. They are expensive, but there are many out there, and some are excellent. Ask for references.... see more

Question

Are there any agences to help with dental expenses?


If the person is on Medicaid, there may be some funds there to pay for replacement of dental plates. Otherwise, unless there is insurance... see more

Question

Can someone please advise how you get a conservatorship or guardianship for a parent?


I think you may need to find a second attorney, preferably one who specializes in elder law. Seeing the same estate attorney who drew up... see more

Question

Can someone provide me with information on Medicaid for housing?


You'll probably need to go through the very long disability process - sorry to say. However, each state is different. Please check your... see more

Question

Is there someone to help me have a garage sale before I move to assisted living?


Yes, there is a lot of action in that area. Look in your phone book or online for "elder movers," "senior movers," and... see more

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What are some of the most effective approaches for preventing and safeguarding against Alzheimer's wandering?...


While there are lots of high-tech things available, one of the best approaches I've seen is used by a reader who takes care of his... see more

Question

My mom just stays home in bed, and does not do any activity. She eats, but not enough and goes to the bathroom...


Your mom sounds like she needs medical attention. Depression would be a likely diagnosis, but she could be having other issues, such as... see more

Question

My mam is 43-years-old and she has eczema. She won't get out of bed and I am 13-years-old. What shall I do to...


I agree that seeing your school counselor is a good route. Either that or ask a friend's parents to help you. An adult needs to help... see more

Question

Mom becomes agitated whenever we talk about going on vacation.


Yes, you need a vacation - guilt free. Your mom talking about wanting to go back to her home state suggests that maybe she's living in... see more

Question

Mom at 95 has dementia or old age and she's making mistakes on her check book. How does one take it away witho...


I wish I could say you can do this without "a fight," but likely you can't. If she hasn't give you or someone else Power... see more

Question

How do you deal with unruley siblings that really do not care about the health of your parent, but want to con...


Family mediators can often help solve these problems. The help of a third party can defuse family tensions, often stemming from childhood.... see more

Question

What is OCD?


OCD is obsessive compulsive disorder. Some people with dementia exhibit OCD symptoms such as repeated skin picking, or having to have... see more

Question

I am caring for an elderly friend of mine, they cannot afford to pay for assistance. Is there help to pay me f...


If your friend is on Medicaid, there may be some paid hours of care, so check into that. If not, it's unlikely. However, you should... see more

Question

What type of home care is available for aging veterans?


Some areas of the country have limited in-home care for veterans. You'll have to check with your local VA to know if you live in one of... see more

Question

How do I deal with my 90-year-old mother who prefers to urinate in diaper rather than go to bathroom? I now ha...


It's "easier" for her, so she just does it. Most good nursing homes try to keep people out of pads as much as possible, and... see more

Question

Why don't your articles focus on spouses who are caregivers to their spouses?


Most of the people on the site are adult children, so the demand for articles on parents is large, however, many of the articles also have... see more

Question

Can I claim my mother as a dependent on my taxes?


A CPA should be able to tell you if you can claim her as a dependent, but I think you have enough complications that consulting an elder... see more

Question

My mother in law has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's and can no longer live on her own. Any advice on how to t...


Often getting the help of a third party helps. A doctor, clergy person or even a good friend can often assist. Be as gentle as possible and... see more

Question

I moved and had to take mom out of assisted living. She's insulin dependent and is having money issues. Will s...


I wouldn't think so, but you'll have to let the VA know about her move anyway, so you can find out then.
Good luck,
Carol

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